The lesson from NYCWhen nearly everyone dismissed him as a dark horse, New York’s Mayor(-elect), Zohran Mamdani, mounted a campaign that blended imagination with integrity — and won (Front page, November 6). His victory, grounded in empathy and pragmatic idealism, spoke directly to a world weary of right-wing populism. His politics was built around belonging, not bitterness. He talked of housing, wages, dignity — everyday concerns that unite rather than divide. His calm defiance showed that moral confidence and organisational depth can overcome the machinery of fear. For India’s Opposition, his message is unmistakable. Protest alone cannot dislodge populism. Only a credible and hopeful story about the future can. Mr. Mamdani re-framed polarising debates into collective aspirations, turning fatigue into faith. Of course, New York is not India. Yet, the essentials travel well — authenticity, political imagination and the courage to build momentum rather than wait for it. Right-wing populism feeds on despair; it falters before hope that feels real. India’s Opposition must craft its Mamdani moment — a politics of conviction and competence that reclaims the moral ground of democracy.M. Jameel Ahmed,MysuruSulakshana PanditIn the passing of Sulakshana Pandit, the film world has lost an actor who mesmerised millions with her mellifluous voice. It is unfortunate that the leading lady, of her time, faced hardships.C.K. Prem Kumar,Kalvakulam, Palakkad, KeralaPublished - November 08, 2025 12:24 am IST